force majeure
A clause that excuses a party from performing when extraordinary events outside its control, such as disasters, make performance impossible.
Definition
Force majeure is a contract provision that frees parties from liability when events beyond reasonable control prevent them from performing. Typical listed events include natural disasters, war, and government orders. Courts read these clauses by their wording, so the list and the notice requirements matter. For events and productions, agencies often discuss what happens to costs already committed. Whether a particular event qualifies depends on the contract and local law, so ask a lawyer rather than assuming. Read the notice period and any duty to reduce losses, because missing a procedural step can weaken an otherwise valid claim.
In a sentence
The festival was cancelled by order of the authorities, which the contract treated as force majeure.
Notice had to be given within seven days of the event.
